Football: Ex-Hog Melton Faces Murder Charge

Football: Ex-Hog Melton Faces Murder Charge

FAYETTEVILLE — Former Arkansas football player Josh Melton was arrested Wednesday and faces a second-degree murder charge in the death of a West Fork man.

The 33-year-old was an offensive lineman for the Razorbacks from 1999-2002.

Melton was released from the Washington County Detention Center on $100,000 bond Thursday, according to the jail’s website. The Batesville native has a court appearance scheduled for today.

His arrest came after Melton and the victim, who police identified as Michael Gover of West Fork, spent the night drinking together at two local restaurants. A preliminary report indicated the two returned to Melton’s Fayetteville residence where they consumed more alcohol. Melton then told police he passed out and, after waking up, discovered Gover had vomited on the living room floor.

He confronted Gover about the mess and the victim responded with “lewd comments.” Melton also told police Gover grabbed him inappropriately.

Melton went into a “rage” and punched Gover multiple times, according the preliminary report. Melton said he left Gover lying on the floor breathing. He went to sleep, woke up later and found Gover unresponsive.

Melton called police and the responding officers found him sitting on the driveway crying and slumped over, according to the report. His hands were covered in blood and Melton also had blood on his arm, chest and feet.

Officers found Gover lying on the floor when they entered the residence and saw blood and vomit on the carpet. Gover was pronounced dead.

The police report indicated Melton was “cooperative and concerned” throughout an interview at the police department. He told police there was “never any intention” to cause Gover’s death. Melton was placed under arrest and posted bond Thursday.